Standard time is upon us once again, and as we gain an extra hour this weekend Portage la Prairie Deputy Fire Chief Dave Holmes reminds you to check your smoke detector.

"This weekend is time change," says Holmes. "Our motto with the fire services is 'Change you clock, and change your batteries.' We're encouraging listeners to check your smoke alarms, and change their batteries in each of their smoke alarms. Working smoke alarms are proven, and studies have shown, they'll reduce fire risk by up to two thirds."

He says you should also be aware that after about ten years you should replace your smoke detector. The units usually have a manufacturer's date or expiry date to let you know when that time arrives.

Holmes explains hard-wired detectors still need replacing as well. He notes they also have a battery back-up in them in case of power failure. So, you still need to check the batteries on those units.

One smoke alarm, minimum, should be in your basement, and one outside the sleeping area and one in each bedroom. He notes this is to catch potential fires that could start in the bedroom. The optimal position is in the centre of your ceiling due to the nature of smoke rising. Holmes says depending on the size of your room you may need more than one.